A random act of kindness, whether on the giving or receiving end, more often than not leaves a lasting impression.
For the last six months or so, as I travel the winding road of recovery from two knee surgeries, navigating curves, climbing peaks and descending valleys, I have been blessed, many times over, to be on the receiving end of human kindness.
Whether I was first wobbling along on two crutches, eventually graduating to one, or today walking with the aid of a cane (which incidentally, according to a number of ladies, makes me look quite distinguished), young and old hold doors open for me, insist that I leave the elevator first, smile in encouragement and ask, many times, the indigenous question: "Doin' all right today?"
I remember rainy Tuesday or Friday mornings, standing in our open garage, crutch under my right arm, waiting for the trash container to be emptied so I could drag it back up the driveway, only to find the workers, realizing my predicament, wheel the cart up the driveway.
And the young man delivering mail, seeing me outside, would hop out of his Jeep and hand the mail to me.
When I started physical therapy in Van Alstyne, the first comment I heard was one of encouragement from a gentleman leisurely walking on a treadmill: "Don't worry, Rock will have you walking in no time."
All I could think of at that time was the old ethnic saying: "From your lips to God's ear." And yes, I am walking today.
Over time, I am much more aware of those that are much worse off than I was.
Folks confined to wheelchairs, or barely able to move on crutches, or hanging onto walkers.
Now I hold the door open for them, give them a smile, call out a cheery hello, wish them a good day. And inevitably, they smile in return.
So to strangers and friends alike -- God bless, for kindness remembered.
Ken Gaidziunas is a staff writer for the Van Alstyne Leader and The Anna-Melissa Tribune.